Arukh HaShulchan, Orach Chaim 270:2-271:5

Hook

A wisp of fragrant spices, a flickering flame, and the sweet scent of wine – Havdalah, a timeless farewell to Shabbat, rich with the flavors of our heritage.

Context

Place

Across the ancient lands of Spain, North Africa, the Middle East, and beyond, from Fez to Baghdad, Salonica to Yemen.

Era

From the Geonim through the Rishonim and Acharonim, a living tradition evolving over a millennium and more.

Community

The diverse tapestry of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jewry, each thread adding unique color to our shared observance.

Text Snapshot

The Arukh HaShulchan, in its discussion of Havdalah, notes a beautiful custom:

"ויש נוהגין לטבול שתי אצבעות מהיד הימנית ביין שנשפך לצלחת, ולמשוח על העינים ועל המצח ועל הגבות, והוא סימן ברכה" (And some have the custom to dip two fingers from the right hand into the wine that spilled into the plate, and to rub it on the eyes, forehead, and eyebrows, as a sign of blessing.) This detail highlights the tangible, sensory connection to the blessings of Shabbat's departure.

Minhag/Melody

The Lingering Blessing

This specific practice of dipping fingers into the Havdalah wine – a cherished custom among many Sephardic and Mizrahi communities, particularly those from North Africa and the Middle East – transforms the wine into a personal anointing, carrying the bracha directly onto the body as a wish for good fortune and spiritual illumination for the week ahead.

Contrast

A Touch of Tradition

While some Ashkenazi traditions might simply sip the wine or pour the overflow for a symbolic blessing, the Sephardic/Mizrahi custom often emphasizes this direct physical application, a beautiful difference showcasing varied approaches to embodying holiness.

Home Practice

Embrace the Senses

Next time you make Havdalah, take a moment to truly savor the besamim (spices) – their aroma, their essence. And if comfortable, try the gentle custom of dabbing a drop of the overflow Havdalah wine on your temples or behind your ears as a wish for blessing and protection.

Takeaway

Havdalah, in its Sephardic and Mizrahi expressions, is a vibrant symphony for the senses, transforming sacred text into tangible, personal blessings that accompany us from Shabbat's close into the new week.